1) Following treatment most casualties, especially long-term casualties, will require a period of convalescence in suitably sized accommodation which, as far as possible, will mimic the natural environment and for many species will be in a secluded area away from human contact. This will allow more normal feeding and behaviour patterns to be performed and strength to be regained. It will also allow further assessment to be made of the casualty's potential for release.

2) No casualty should be considered for release without an assessment being made of its ability to survive in the wild independent
of human support.

3) An establishment may not have the necessary facilities or experienced staff to allow for the convalescence phase for certain species.
These establishments should maintain close links with other units that can provide these facilities to ensure the welfare of a casualty.

4) Convalescence Facilities

i) Facilities for convalescence and pre-release assessment will require sufficient space to allow the casualty to exercise.
The environment within the accommodation should be designed to enable and encourage the casualty to behave as naturally as possible.

ii) Such facilities must provide security from escape and theft.

iii) Separate accommodation should be provided, where practical, for different species and age groups.

iv) Design and positioning of the accommodation should ensure seclusion from undue disturbance. Within the accommodation
seclusion boxes or screened areas may be provided to which the casualty can retreat. Methods of feeding, watering and cleaning
the accommodation should cause minimum disturbance to the occupant.

v) Provision for observation of the casualty without disturbance (for example use of CCTV) will allow a more accurate assessment
of the patient's behaviour and potential for release.